Tag: Work Good

What 139 entrepreneurs shared in 2018 still echoes today

In 2018, I conducted a study that turned out to be more than research – it became a wake-up call.

I had been asking a question in my coaching sessions for years:

What comes first – happiness or success?

Some people answered quickly: “Success, of course.” Others hesitated. “Well… depends what you mean by happiness.”

But when I invited 139 entrepreneurs to explore that question more deeply, the answers revealed something powerful:

Most people were chasing one and sacrificing the other.

That was the starting point for the Happy Business You research.
What people shared back then still shapes everything I do today, and it became the seed of what would later grow into the Quality of Life Concept & Tour.

What the survey revealed

This wasn’t a casual online quiz. It was a full survey built on respected frameworks: Maslow’s needs, McClelland’s motivation theory, EQ, the Business Model You, and even the nine domains of Gross National Happiness. The survey explored:

• What makes people feel truly happy in their business-life
• How they define success – on their own terms
• What happens when the two don’t match
• And whether change actually feels possible

The answers came from 139 entrepreneurs, across sectors and stages of life.

The real story behind “Success”

When asked whether they felt successful as entrepreneurs, many said yes – but not without hesitation. Success was often linked to external results (revenue, growth, team performance), yet…

“Even with results, I’m not always in balance.”

Over half of participants admitted that their company’s performance strongly influenced their personal sense of happiness – for better or worse. So while success felt measurable, happiness felt more fragile.

The deeper motivators

When asked what truly made them happy, 76% of respondents said:

“It’s important that we do something good and contribute to society.”

This was more than window dressing, it was a core value. People wanted their business to mean something. Not just in terms of impact, but in how it aligned with their personal values.

Another common response:

“I feel happiest when I grow personally, not just professionally.”

This distinction between doing well and feeling well became one of the most valuable insights I’ve carried with me since.

Identity and misalignment

A majority identified strongly as entrepreneurs:

“It’s in my blood.”

But many also admitted feeling tired, out of rhythm, or disconnected from their original purpose. They were still “playing the part,” but not always living the truth of why they started.

Desire for change

Most participants said they believed in growth, and wanted it, not just in revenue, but in their own life experience. They were open to change, but often stuck in the structures they’d built for themselves.

“I know what I want to change. I just don’t know how.”

This was the contradiction I saw again and again: People deeply wanted alignment – but didn’t feel free to pursue it.

Why it still matters today

Looking back, this study wasn’t just about the answers. It was about what people felt but rarely said out loud. It showed that even back then, people were beginning to question:

• What is success really costing me?
• What does “enough” feel like?
• Am I still building the life I want?

And that’s why, years later, I started the Quality of Life & Tour. Because the need to rethink success and realign with what matters has only grown louder.

From survey to movement

This research may be from 2018, but its message is timeless:

• Success without happiness is hollow
• Purpose matters more than ever
• Entrepreneurs are people first
• And real change begins with honest reflection

So soon, when I travel from city to city – listening, reflecting, and gathering stories – I’m not just documenting a tour. I’m continuing a conversation that started with 139 brave responses.

Want to reflect on your own path?

You’re invited. Just two ways to take your next step:

Visit the QOL Tour page – see where the journey is going next and what stories we’re gathering across the world.
Try the Soulprint Compass – upload 3 images that feel like “you” and receive a visual mirror + a soulful suggestion on where to begin realigning your life.

Because maybe it’s not about chasing more. Maybe it’s about remembering what matters.

I’ve spent decades navigating the world of business – sometimes with great success, sometimes with spectacular failures. If there’s one lesson I’ve learned the hard way, it’s this: wisdom always outweighs raw knowledge. Yet, in today’s fast-moving world, businesses often mistake having more information for having better judgment.

We live in an era of instant data. AI tools generate insights in seconds, trends shift overnight, and decisions are made at lightning speed. But where is the space for wisdom?

Think about a seasoned craftsman who has spent decades mastering his art. He doesn’t just follow instructions – he intuitively knows what works and why. Now, compare that to a business leader relying solely on analytics, chasing trends, and making decisions without experience.
The difference? One builds something that lasts, while the other is always playing catch-up, like a hamster on a corporate treadmill. And trust me, I’ve been that hamster before.

Why businesses ignore wisdom

Many businesses assume more data means better decisions. But real leadership isn’t about certainty – it’s about making decisions despite uncertainty. I’ve seen leaders drown in spreadsheets, trying to analyze their way to the perfect choice, only to realize that wisdom – the gut feeling that comes from experience – was what they really needed all along.

Speed is another enemy of wisdom. Companies want results now, so they rush into actions that look good short-term but crumble over time. Wisdom takes patience – like the difference between a microwaved meal and a slow-cooked feast. One is faster, but the other is far more satisfying. And believe me, I’ve experienced that slow-cooked business decisions always taste better in the end.

Then there’s the obsession with trends. Businesses chase what’s new, afraid to be left behind. (Business FOMO) But wisdom isn’t trendy – it’s timeless. Trends come and go, like questionable fashion choices (yes, I’ve made a few of those too) but wisdom? That’s the classic leather jacket that never goes out of style.

The cost of ignoring wisdom

Ignoring wisdom comes with a price. I’ve worked with companies that were so focused on immediate success that they burned out their teams chasing numbers without real purpose. Sure, they saw short-term wins, but long-term stability? Nowhere in sight.

Customers and employees today crave authenticity. Businesses that lack wisdom quickly lose trust because people can spot the difference between those who operate with true insight and those who are just chasing the next big thing. And let’s be honest – nobody wants to work for or buy from a company that operates like a headless chicken.

How wisdom gives businesses an edge

So, how can businesses integrate wisdom into their approach?

First, Zoom Out And See The Bigger Picture. Wisdom isn’t found in spreadsheets – it’s found in human experience, in understanding long-term impact rather than just reacting to immediate trends.

Second, Use AI As A Tool, Not A Crutch. AI can analyze data, but it lacks intuition. The best leaders use it to enhance their decision-making, not replace it. AI is like a GPS – it can guide you, but if you follow it blindly, you might still end up somewhere you don’t want to be (I’ve done that too, by the way).

Third, Seek Out Those Who’ve Walked The Path. The best insights come from those who have built, failed, and rebuilt. I’ve been through the highs and lows, and I can tell you – if wisdom were a stock, it would be the ultimate blue-chip investment.

Fourth, Prioritize Purpose Over Profit. Businesses that stand for something bigger attract loyal customers and engaged employees. Ironically, when companies focus on meaningful impact, profits tend to follow. It’s one of those beautiful contradictions in life.

Finally, Slow Down To Speed Up. In a world addicted to rapid results, those who take the time to think deeply and act intentionally will always outlast those who rush blindly.

The future belongs to the wise

The businesses that last won’t be the ones with the most data. They’ll be the ones that know how to turn knowledge into wisdom and use it to create something meaningful.

AI is powerful, but it’s just a tool. Real success belongs to those who know when to use it and when to trust human wisdom.

So, here’s my challenge to you:
Are you just collecting knowledge, or are you ready to embrace wisdom?

If you’re looking to build a business that lasts, I’d love to help. Let’s rethink, redesign, and build a wiser way forward together.

In today’s business world, something beautiful is happening: people are waking up to the fact that purpose and profit don’t have to be at odds – they can fuel each other. This isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement toward creating businesses that thrive by doing good.

But let’s be real – it’s not always easy to get there. Leaders feel pulled in so many directions: customers who expect real action on sustainability, employees who want to work for something meaningful, and investors who want to see long-term value (without losing sight of the bottom line). At the same time, there’s a need to grow, stay competitive, and manage the everyday pressures of running a business.

Here’s the thing: when you align your purpose with your business strategy, magic happens. It’s not just about making promises; it’s about making a real, tangible impact – and that’s where I come in.

Why purpose matters more than ever

The world is asking businesses to show up differently. It’s not enough to turn a profit anymore; people want to know what you stand for, how you operate, and what kind of future you’re building. Businesses that embrace this shift are seeing the benefits firsthand—like stronger relationships with their customers, more engaged employees, and trust from values-driven investors.

Think about it: when you weave purpose into everything you do, from how you treat your people to the way you design your products, you’re not just ticking boxes for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) or CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). You’re creating a business that people believe in—and want to support.

And the results speak for themselves. Studies show businesses that prioritize purpose see 40% higher long-term returns and attract 23% more loyal employees. Purpose isn’t a side project; it’s the foundation for thriving in today’s world.

The Inside-Out approach: it starts with you

At The Business Hippie Club, we believe all transformation starts from within—what we call our Inside-Out Approach. When leaders align their personal values with their business, that ripple effect changes everything. Here’s how it works:

1. Get Real with Your Purpose This isn’t about coming up with a fancy mission statement; it’s about digging deep into what matters to you as a leader. Why does your business exist beyond profit? What kind of impact do you want to have in the world? Together, we uncover your purpose and align it with your business goals.
2. Align Strategy with Impact Once your purpose is clear, it’s time to embed it into your business strategy. We’ll look at how your decisions can create real value—not just for your bottom line but for your employees, customers, and the world around you. Whether it’s integrating ESG principles into your operations or creating initiatives that make a difference, this is where purpose meets action.
3. Make Waves with Meaningful Impact Purpose comes alive when it’s shared. From launching sustainable products to building community partnerships, the outward impact of your business reflects its soul. This isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about making waves in a way that’s authentic to you.

Why businesses like yours are the future

Let’s face it—the old way of doing business doesn’t work anymore. People are craving connection, authenticity, and trust. In our article, A Social Economy Based on Human Values, we explored how businesses can become a force for good by operating with integrity and putting people first.

At the same time, The Rise of Societal Refugees showed us how disconnected people feel from organizations that lack purpose. This is your chance to be the kind of business people want to rally behind—a business that gives them hope for a better world.

Let’s make it happen

Here’s the deal: aligning purpose with profit isn’t just possible—it’s necessary. It’s the way forward for businesses that want to thrive while making a real difference.

I’m here to help you find that sweet spot where your values meet your strategy, creating a business that’s not just successful but deeply impactful. Whether it’s transforming your leadership, embedding purpose into your operations, or creating initiatives that make waves in your community, we’ll work together to bring your vision to life.

Are you ready to turn your business into a force for good? Let’s connect and start building something meaningful – together.

Peace, Love & Happiness!

Creating a social role in business organizations

In today’s world, businesses are more than just profit-driven entities, they’re becoming second homes for employees. Where culture shapes well-being, mental health, and identity. The question Why are you in business? should encompass not only financial success but how your company nurtures employees and contributes to societal well-being.

Business as a Social Force

As we discussed in The Decline of Religion: A New Search for Meaning and The Rise of Societal Refugees, traditional institutions like religion are losing their hold on people’s sense of purpose. More individuals are now seeking meaning in new places, including the workplace. As people feel disconnected from societal structures, businesses have a growing responsibility to step in and provide that sense of purpose and belonging.

By creating purpose-driven cultures, companies can become platforms for connection and growth. As such filling a gap that religion and other traditional systems once occupied. This reflects the growing trend of individuals feeling like “societal refugees,” searching for new spaces to find meaning, whether in work, communities, or alternative frameworks for life.

Examples of purpose-driven businesses

Salesforce and Patagonia are great examples of companies embracing purpose alongside profit. Salesforce’s “Ohana” culture has led to a 25% productivity boost by treating employees like family. Patagonia’s commitment to environmental activism has not only driven $1 billion in revenue but also cemented their role as a leader in social and environmental change.

Trends and data supporting this shift

The trend toward purpose-driven businesses is backed by hard data. Gallup’s study found that companies with highly engaged employees see 21% greater profitability. Poor mental health, according to the World Health Organization, costs the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Organizations prioritizing mental health and flexibility have reduced burnout by 40%, demonstrating the value of a strong, supportive workplace culture.

Aligning purpose with profit

When businesses position themselves as sources of purpose, they attract not only loyal employees but also customers who resonate with their values. By answering Why are you in business? companies can redefine their role as platforms for positive change, fostering both social good and profitability.

Practical steps for aligning purpose with profit:

1. Define a purpose beyond profit: Identify how your business can improve the well-being of employees and society.
2. Create a strong, supportive culture: Foster a culture that prioritizes mental health, flexibility, and personal growth.
3. Engage employees in shared values: Build a sense of community where everyone works toward a shared mission.
4. Adapt to trends: Embrace changes like hybrid work models and mental health programs to meet modern expectations and improve well-being.

The Business Hippie way: aligning purpose and profit

At the Business Hippie Club, we believe businesses should serve as platforms for both personal and societal transformation. The question Why are you in business? should focus on creating a meaningful impact on people’s lives, beyond just financial gain. By aligning purpose with profit, companies can foster an environment where employees thrive, customers feel connected, and society benefits.

Let’s work together to create (y)our ideal world, where purpose and profit come together to drive positive change and build a brighter future for everyone.

Plan a talk to discuss this, in my online agenda: www.calendly.com/hansvanderakt

Peace, Love & Happiness!

create (y)our ideal world!

from profit only to a purposeful organization

In today’s evolving business world, companies are shifting their focus from just making money to making a difference. The “Company of the Future” isn’t just about profits; it’s about having a bigger purpose that benefits society and the planet.

This shift means companies are redefining success. It’s not just about money anymore; it’s about making a positive impact on people’s lives and the environment. These purpose-driven companies have a clear mission that guides everything they do. Whether it’s fighting climate change, promoting diversity, or supporting local communities, they’re committed to making a difference.

Key to this change is stakeholder capitalism, where companies care about more than just their financial bottom line. They prioritize the well-being of employees, customers, and the community. By building strong relationships and focusing on long-term value, they create a more sustainable future for everyone.

Environmental sustainability is a big part of this. Companies are adopting eco-friendly practices, reducing waste, and finding innovative solutions to protect the planet. They’re also investing in technology to make processes more efficient and transparent.

At the core of the Company of the Future are its people. These companies value their employees, promote diversity, and encourage innovation. By investing in their workforce, they drive success for everyone involved.

Transitioning to a purpose-driven organization isn’t easy, but the benefits are huge. It leads to a better reputation, happier employees, and stronger relationships with customers.

As we move forward, let’s embrace the power of purpose to create positive change. Together, we can build companies that not only succeed financially but also make the world a better place for everyone.

create (y)our ideal world!

Integrating Spirituality into Business:
A Holistic Approach for Success

The intersection of spirituality and business is a concept that challenges the traditional boundaries between the sacred and the secular. In a fast-paced and often highly competitive business environment, individuals and organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of incorporating spiritual principles to create a more holistic and fulfilling professional life. This blogpost explores the ways in which spirituality can be integrated into the business realm, fostering personal growth, ethical decision-making, and a more harmonious workplace.

Spirituality in Business:

1. PURPOSE AND VALUES:

• Defining a Higher Purpose: Incorporating spirituality in business involves defining a higher purpose beyond profit. Organizations can articulate a mission that aligns with values beyond financial success, such as social responsibility, environmental stewardship, or community development.
• Core Values: Identifying and promoting core values that resonate with spiritual principles, such as integrity, compassion, and empathy, establishes a foundation for ethical decision-making.

2. MINDFULNESS AND PRESENCE:

• Mindful Leadership: Spiritual principles often emphasize being present in the moment and cultivating mindfulness. Business leaders can benefit from practices like meditation and mindfulness to enhance focus, reduce stress, and make more informed decisions.
• Work-Life Balance: Encouraging a healthy work-life balance promotes employee well-being and fosters an environment where individuals can bring their whole selves to work.

3. COLLABORATIVE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE:

• Building Community: Spirituality often emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings. Businesses can foster a sense of community by promoting collaboration, open communication, and inclusivity.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Embracing diversity and recognizing the value of different perspectives contributes to a spiritually aware workplace where individuals feel respected and valued.

4. ETHICAL DECISION-MAKING:

• Conscious Decision-Making: Spirituality encourages individuals to consider the broader impact of their decisions. Business leaders can integrate ethical considerations into decision-making processes, promoting responsible and sustainable practices.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Aligning business practices with social and environmental responsibility reflects a commitment to values beyond profit, contributing to the greater good.

5. EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING:

• Holistic Employee Development: Spirituality recognizes the importance of holistic well-being. Businesses can invest in employee development programs that address physical, mental, and emotional health, fostering a more satisfied and engaged workforce.
• Leadership Development: Encouraging leaders to embody spiritual principles in their leadership styles contributes to a positive organizational culture.

Conclusion:

Incorporating spirituality into business life offers a pathway to a more holistic and meaningful professional experience. By aligning personal and organizational values, promoting mindfulness, nurturing a collaborative culture, and emphasizing ethical decision-making, businesses can create environments that prioritize well-being and purpose. The integration of spirituality in business is not about abandoning professional way of doing, but rather enhancing it with a deeper sense of purpose and consciousness. As the business landscape evolves, the incorporation of spiritual principles may become a crucial element in achieving sustainable success.

create (y)our ideal world!

Many people think that spirituality and business are incompatible, but I believe that they can go hand in hand. Spirituality is not about following a specific religion or dogma, but about finding your own meaning and purpose in life. It is about connecting with your inner self, your values, your passions, and your higher power.

Business, on the other hand, is often seen as a cold and rational pursuit of profit and success. It is about competing with others, meeting deadlines, and achieving goals. It is about following rules, regulations, and standards.

But what if you could combine the best of both worlds? What if you could bring more spirituality into your business-life, and more business into your spirituality? What if you could create a harmonious balance between your personal and professional growth?

Here are some ways that you can incorporate spirituality in your business-life:

• Start your day with a meditation or a prayer. This will help you to center yourself, calm your mind, and set your intentions for the day. You can also use this time to express gratitude for what you have and ask for guidance from your higher power.
• Align your business with your values and mission. Make sure that what you do and how you do it reflects who you are and what you stand for. Don’t compromise your integrity or ethics for short-term gains or external pressures. Be authentic and transparent in your dealings with others.
• Treat everyone with respect and compassion. Whether they are your customers, employees, partners, suppliers, or competitors, remember that they are human beings with feelings, needs, and aspirations. Listen to them, empathize with them, and help them whenever you can. Don’t judge them or take advantage of them.
• Seek feedback and learn from your mistakes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from others who have more experience or expertise than you. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to improve yourself and your business. Don’t dwell on your failures or blame others for them. Learn from them and move on.
• Celebrate your achievements and share your blessings. Don’t be shy to acknowledge your accomplishments and reward yourself for your hard work. You deserve it! But also don’t forget to share your success and happiness with others who have supported you along the way. Give back to your community and contribute to causes that matter to you.
• Keep growing and evolving. Don’t settle for mediocrity or complacency. Always strive to learn new things, explore new opportunities, and challenge yourself. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something different. Keep in touch with your inner self and follow your intuition.

By incorporating spirituality in your business-life, you will not only achieve more success and satisfaction, but also more joy and fulfillment. You will not only make a living, but also make a difference. You will not only work hard, but also work smart.

So go ahead and embrace spirituality in your business-life. You will be amazed by the results!

create (y)our ideal world!

The hire of new personnel can be daunting. It’s a profession by itself. The HR Manager might fall into the trap that his job is done when the application process is finished. The file of the new employee will be forwarded to the assigned department-head, and case closed. Actually this is the moment where the process starts to a possible win-win situation for both parties; the employer and the employee.

24 % of new hires leave within the first 45 days

The new hire will have expectations about his/her job and tasks, about the typical company organization and culture, about the delivery of tools and support he/she will get. The communication between the two parties should be correct and transparent from the very beginning. So the job advertorial will match the actual (real life) job. The following three elements will give you the insights for good onboarding:

1. Functional Transparency

• Job goal: what is the main or big goal of the new job
• The tasks: which duties and tasks to do
• The tools/systems will be supplied or are necessary
• When is the job successful: results, output, time, delivery, (quantitively/qualitive)

2. Organizational Insights

• What are the rules/regulations in the organization
• What is the company culture in the sense of values, mission, vision and social tribing
• How does the organization look like and what is his/her place in this organization

3. Job Support

• Make E-learning available and relevant to the job
• Personal Coaching or a buddy system for direct assistance
• On the job training
• Who is your first and second line of contact for functional help

40 % of new hires make their decision to leave, during the first 6 months

Onboarding is relevant for employers
A good onboarding program is beneficial for employers as new hires will be more quickly up to speed, and thus productive. Also the involvement and motivation of the employee will be higher. If onboarding is done well, new hires are less likely to leave the company.  

Why employees benefit from good onboarding
Employees will get confirmation of the choice they made for this particular job or company. As they will learn about the company, they will be (more) proud at their new workplace, colleagues, products, etc.

The new hires will get a clear idea on what their role will be. A picture how things run around here, so they are able to navigate in the organization and find their way much easier and with comfort.

Losing an employee in the first year costs about 2,5 times their salary

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR GOOD ONBOARDING

• Take care of all practical matters as early in the process as possible
• Put all administration things in the background, as this is only a disturbance during the learning process
• It should be all about work, and not about all kind of practical details
• Online learning should be made available as soon as possible and be relevant to their job
• Present new hires 3 real live cases, so they have a clear picture of what to expect in their job from the beginning
• Describe the end-goal of the onboarding program
• Track progress during the onboarding program
• Know what employees motivates
• Make all tools, applications, computers etc. direct available and make sure it really works
• Show them their new workplace so they can visualize themselves being at work

A GOOD ONBOARDING PROCESS WILL BRING QUALITY

PRE-boarding
Before the boarding starts, sent the new hires an overview of the onboarding program. So they know what to expect and get them involved. It will lessen their insecurity and sorrows. This is also a way the employer will show interest in their employees, and that they take their careers serious.

ON-boarding
Appoint an onboarding buddy to accompany them during the process. It’s not only about taking care in a functional way, but especially about their personal development and human wellbeing.

AFTER-boarding
Ask and check about the progress when the boarding program is active and when the program is finished, when they start working in their actual new job. This gives valuable feedback for adjustments.

ONBOARDING IS NOT GIVING THEM A MANUAL OR A COMPUTER. NEITHER A FUNCTIONAL TO DO LIST THEY HAVE TO FOLLOW. IT’S ABOUT A REAL HUMAN EXPERIENCE!

Trade Necessity

A long time ago when new transportation techniques emerged, it created new jobs like the traveling merchant and local trader. Where you could buy new and different products from other places then your own. There was a natural balance between the buyer and seller because goods or services were exchanged based on necessity.

Business is the new standard

Trade or starting a business has evolved during the last centuries into a “serious” profession. Where all kinds of new business developments were invented like new production techniques, price calculations, ratio’s, KPI’s, and something called “efficiency” Here scarcity was the basis of this trade game.

A Fair Trade

Slowly our view of doing business changed from efficiency towards impact. Where transparency opened our eyes and changed public opinion. This in a sense that trade was not always equal for all parties. Where business ethics became an important factor; doing good for society, giving back to the producers, a sustainable business for a clean environment etc. Where the rational efficiency on short term is not leading anymore, but the soft factors and the impact in a longer period of time, are the new metrics.

the impact in a longer period of time, is the new metric

Business as the new religion

The new entrepreneurs are getting younger and business is initiated by all kinds of people on all levels. New enterprises arise in so many different countries and even in remote locations. Where money is not an issue anymore thanks to Crowdfunding and Microcredit. Entrepreneurship is a commodity. Or is there more to it?

Entrepreneurship seems to be the new religion. The save harbor for a meaningful live and freedom of choice. Where business models are filled with the mantra of Peace, Love & Happiness. Where business people live accordingly to it:
– PEACE: have peace with yourself and with all others
– LOVE: love what you do, and how you do it
– HAPPINESS: experience happiness about the positive impact you bring to others

If you use these three spiritual factors, in your business-life you will make a change to your inner being as to the other humans beings around you.